Moon shines down upon a sea of Light,
Shifting sands lay singing in the Heart of the Night.
I looked upon a scene that gripped me to the core,
White-clad maidens below were dancing on the shore.
Sweet sounds slipped from moon-lit throats,
Wind whipped hair abound,
Lit by the light within and without,
The Women circled ’round.
As I stood, water engulfed my feet,
My body swayed to your Heavenly Heart beat.
Wind and wave and fire light,
Paled in my mind Earthly delight.
Time slipped by me as you held your embrace,
And windblown spray covered my face.
Protected deep within your Womb,
I could feel the tender pain of Life’s bloom.
Candles flared high as the Dance progressed,
Deep inside with a healing touch you blessed.
All around, wind, wave and fire shouted of your life,
Your light speared deep within, soothing my strife.
Divine Mother, Goddess of Light,
To you I come seeking protection from the night.
Come home to shelter within your arm,
Surrounded by Love, hidden from harm.
Holy Mother, Queen of Heaven and Earth,
From you we all trace our Birth.
Heavenly Goddess, light from above,
Shine down upon us, we pray for your Love.
—-Author Unknown
Originally published on Pagan Library
The Sun
Sun Direction: ↑ 91.98° E
Sun Altitude: 25.51°
Sun Distance: 94.122 million mi
Next Equinox: Sep 22, 2017 3:01 pm (Autumnal)
Sunrise Today: 6:12 am↑ 72° East
Sunset Today: 7:44 pm↑ 288° West
Length of Daylight: 13 hours, 32 minutes
The Moon
Moon Direction: ↑ 194.67° SSW
Moon Altitude: 69.56°
Moon Distance: 228684 mi
Next New Moon: Aug 21, 20171:30 pm
Next Full Moon: Sep 6, 20172:02 am
Next Moonset: Today3:18 pm
Current Moon Phase: Waning Crescent
Illumination: 32.9%
Lunar Calendar
Moon Phase Tonight: Waning Crescent
New Moon: Aug 21, 2017 at 1:30 pm
(Next Phase)
Third Quarter: Aug 14, 2017 at 8:14 pm
(Previous Phase)
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Consistent with NASA
First things first: yes, you can trust our eclipse times.
If you are planning to watch a solar or lunar eclipse, our eclipse pages are a great place to get reliable information. We have tested the information we display, compared it with sources like NASA and the Astronomical Almanac—and tested it again. You will not miss out on an eclipse because our times are off.
So why choose us? While our eclipse times are highly consistent with all of the most reputable sources in the field, we provide more service. Our eclipse maps, animations, and eclipse library simply make eclipse data easier and more fun to use.
Total Accuracy Is Impossible
Eclipse times can be determined mathematically. You only need to take into account factors like the size of the Earth, the Sun, and the Moon, as well as their movements in relation to one another, do the math—et voilà: the result will tell you when an eclipse starts, reaches its maximum, and ends at a location of your choice. But only just. There are some factors that make it impossible to be 100% precise. They include:
Neither the Moon nor the Earth is perfectly round; they are both slightly squashed. Their exact shapes can only be determined up to a certain degree of precision. This means that the numbers any eclipse prediction is based on are merely approximations.
There are mountains and valleys on the Moon, so its shadow has a slightly rugged edge. Solar eclipse predictions usually do not take this factor into account. If you happen to stand in the shadow of a lunar mountain at the beginning or end of a total solar eclipse, totality may last a tiny bit longer for you.
The mountains and valleys on Earth further distort the timing of a solar eclipse. Our calculations are based on the size of the Moon’s shadow at sea level. However, its umbra, the portion of the shadow where the Sun appears completely eclipsed, is cone-shaped. As a consequence, the higher you are above sea level, the larger the shadow—and the longer totality lasts for you.
The movements of the Earth and the Moon are not constant. While we know that the Earth revolves around the Sun in about 365.24219 days and the Moon completes a full orbit around Earth in relation to the Sun in about 29.530575 days, it is impossible to predict their precise speeds on a daily basis as a number of forces can speed things up or slow them down. This means that a day on Earth is rarely exactly 24 hours long and that the Moon’s shadow may move slightly faster or slower during a solar eclipse than predicted.
We don’t know exactly how large the Sun is. Even NASA wouldn’t be able to tell you the exact diameter of our star! The margin of error is only about 0.03%, but that it is enough to influence the times for a solar eclipse by a few seconds as the size of the Moon’s shadow also depends on the size of the Sun.
The Earth’s atmosphere blocks some of the sunlight, so our planet’s shadow has a slightly fuzzy edge. During partial or total lunar eclipses, this makes it difficult to determine the precise moment when the shadow first touches the lunar surface, which marks the beginning of the eclipse.
Very Small Margin of Error
So, how accurate are our eclipse times? It’s difficult to put a number on it as any potential deviation depends on the type of eclipse, its date, your location, and other factors. But unless you need to know the moments an eclipse starts, ends, or reaches its maximum down to the second, it’s fair to say that our predictions are so precise that, if there is a deviation, it is very small and you will most likely not notice it.
The factors mentioned above, while making it impossible to be absolutely precise, only cause minute distortions. For example, the fact that the lunar shadow increases in size as you move towards the Moon creates a slightly longer totality at higher altitudes. However, because the lunar shadow moves at such a high speed and its diameter increases at a very slow rate, this difference only amounts to fractions of a second. Even on Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain, the Moon’s shadow is only about 80 meters (260 feet) wider than at sea level.
Similarly, the unpredictability of the Earth’s rotational speed, while having the potential to significantly distort the predictions of eclipses in the far future, poses less of a problem for the calculation of eclipse times in the next few years. The closer the eclipse is in time, the more reliable the calculated times are.
In terms of the location of the Moon’s shadow during solar eclipses, the margin of error may sound pretty large at first. For example, the location of the Moon’s shadow during the total solar eclipse on August 21, 2017 shown on the Eclipse Map can be off by about 1 kilometer (3300 feet). However, that is the approximate distance the Moon’s shadow covers in only 1 second, so this imprecision amounts to no more than a heartbeat for spectators on the ground. Having said that, if you are at the very edge of the path of the total eclipse, it is probably wise to move at least 1 kilometer towards its center to make sure you will not miss out on totality.
Beware of the Horizon
It is worth noting that the times we display for sunrise and sunset, as well as moonrise and moonset, are based on a flat horizon where the observer is at the same altitude as the horizon. For this reason, it is important to avoid obstacles like hills or buildings if you are planning to watch an eclipse where the Sun or Moon appears close to the horizon.
Please also note that in rare cases, our list of eclipses seen in a particular location may not include a solar eclipse that occurs during sunrise or sunset. However, we are already in the process of tweaking our models to fix that issue.
Source
How Not to Watch Solar Eclipses
According to NASA, the following materials should never be used to view a solar eclipse:
sunglasses of any kind
color film
medical X-ray film
smoked glass
floppy disks
The Sun’s UV radiation can burn the retinas in the eyes leading to permanent damage or even blindness. This can occur even if your eyes are exposed to direct sunlight for just a few seconds.
Safely Watch a Solar Eclipse
DIY: Project the Sun.
The only way to safely view the Sun – eclipsed or not – is to either project or filter the Sun’s rays.
Projectors
Projection works well. You can make your own box projector or use a telescope or binoculars. However, don’t look through the telescope’s eyepiece or side-mounted finder scope while projecting the Sun’s image onto a screen.
Eclipse Glasses
If you are not the DIY type, the American Astronomical Society has compiled a list of vendors where you can buy safe eclipse glasses.
Use protective gear.
NASA recommends welder’s glasses rated 14 or higher. These can be found at your local welding supply store. Keep in mind that welder glass grading may be different in different countries.
Solar Filters
You can use special solar filters to watch the Sun during a solar eclipse, but use the proper type of solar filter that is designed for eclipses. Check that filters do not crack under the Sun’s magnified and focused intensity. Solar filters must be treated with care, or they can quickly become damaged and unsafe to use.
Source
A simple and safe way to watch a solar eclipse is with a box pinhole projector. It is easy to make from a cardboard box and ordinary household items.
Diagram of a box pinhole projector.
Watch an eclipse through a pinhole projector.
Project the Sun
Never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection. You can seriously hurt your eyes and even go blind.
Projecting the Sun in a box projector, with binoculars or a telescope, or using only 2 pieces of cardboard is a safe and easy way to see a solar eclipse.
Projector Using a Box
This type of pinhole projector works on the same principle as a basic pinhole projector. However, the box makes this projector much sturdier and easier to set on a surface. And it only requires a few extra items to construct.
You Need:
a long cardboard box or tube
scissors
duct tape
aluminum foil
a pin or a thumbtack
a sharp knife or paper cutter
a sheet of white paper
What to Do:
Cut a rectangular hole at the end of the box. You can tape 2 boxes together to make a long box. The longer the box, the larger the projected image.
Using the scissors, cut out a piece of the aluminum foil slightly larger than the rectangular hole. Make sure the foil is completely flat and not crinkled.
Tape the foil over the rectangular hole in the box.
Use the pin to poke a tiny hole in the center of the foil.
Tape the sheet of paper on the inside of the other end of the box.
Stand with your back toward the Sun. Place the box over your head with the pinhole towards the Sun. Adjust your position until you see a small projection, a reversed image, of the eclipsed Sun on the paper inside the box.
Using a Tube?
If you are using a long tube or taping 2 tubes together, cut the end of the tubes and tape the foil with a pinhole on 1 end. On the other end, tape a piece of white paper over the end of the tube. This will act as the screen. Close to this end, cut a rectangular hole using the knife. This will be your viewing window.
With your back toward the Sun, point the end with the foil toward the Sun, angling the tube along the Sun’s rays. Look into the tube through the viewing window until you see a reversed image of the eclipsed Sun on the screen.
Keep Safe!
Never look at the Sun directly without protective eye gear. Even sunglasses cannot protect your eyes from the damage the Sun’s rays can do to them.
Always keep your back toward the Sun while looking at a pinhole projection.
Do not look at the Sun through the pinhole.
No Good for Planet Transits
Unfortunately, for planet transits like the Mercury Transit on November 11–12, 2019, Mercury is too small and too far away to be projected in this manner. However, a projector made from binoculars or a telescope can work.
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Comet PANSTARRS, the Perseid meteor shower, and other beautiful things to look for in the sky this week.
By Richard Talcott
Wednesday, August 16
Look for the waning crescent Moon this morning as it hovers just east of the Hyades star cluster in Taurus the Bull. The two objects clear the horizon by 1 a.m. local daylight time and climb halfway to the zenith by the time morning twilight begins. The Moon appears 35 percent lit and easily outshines the stars of the V-shaped Hyades. First-magnitude Aldebaran, which marks one tip of the V, appears brighter than the rest of the cluster’s stars because it actually lies in the foreground.
Thursday, August 17
Jupiter appears low in the west-southwest an hour after sunset this week. The brilliant planet shines at magnitude –1.8 and dominates the evening sky. It appears against the backdrop of Virgo, some 6° to the right of the Maiden’s brightest star, 1st-magnitude Spica. When viewed through a telescope, Jupiter’s disk spans 33″ and shows a wealth of atmospheric detail.
Friday, August 18
Look overhead around 10 p.m. anytime this week and your eyes will fall on the brilliant star Vega in the constellation Lyra the Harp. At magnitude 0.0, Vega is the brightest member of the prominent Summer Triangle asterism. The Triangle’s second-brightest star, magnitude 0.8 Altair in Aquila the Eagle, lies some 35° southeast of Vega. The asterism’s dimmest member, magnitude 1.3 Deneb in Cygnus the Swan, stands about 25° east-northeast of Vega.
The Moon reaches perigee, the closest point in its orbit around Earth, at 9:18 a.m. EDT. It then lies 227,497 miles (366,121 kilometers) from Earth’s center.
Saturday, August 19
By the time morning twilight starts to paint the sky, your eyes will be drawn to the eastern sky for a meeting of the night sky’s two brightest objects. Brilliant Venus rises first, clearing the horizon shortly before 3:30 a.m. local daylight time. Less than a half-hour later, the waning crescent Moon joins the planet. The two make a stunning pair as they climb higher in the twilight sky. Venus, which shines at magnitude –3.9, appears 20° above the horizon an hour before sunrise.
Sunday, August 20
Distant Neptune reaches opposition and peak visibility in just two weeks, but the view now is essentially the same. The ice giant planet rises during evening twilight and climbs nearly halfway to the zenith in the southern sky by 2 a.m. local daylight time. The magnitude 7.8 planet lies in Aquarius, 1.5° east of 4th-magnitude Lambda (l) Aquarii. You’ll need binoculars to spy Neptune and a telescope to see its blue-gray disk, which spans 2.4″.
Source
The Moon is in Gemini.
The Moon is waning and in its Last Quarter phase.
The Last Quarter Moon occurred on the 14th, and the New Moon (Solar Eclipse) will occur on August 21st.
Mercury is retrograde (Mercury is retrograde from August 12-September 5).
The Moon is traveling through witty Gemini today. Call, text, send email, write letters. Visit someone you’ve missed. Watch a movie and talk about it at a coffee shop. Get out and about. Don’t sleep in.
Our instincts are to communicate, think, and learn under the influence of Moon in Gemini. We are motivated by a desire for variety and by an instinctive curiosity. The Moon in Gemini is light-hearted, breezy, and curious, but it can also be restless and fickle.
The Moon in Gemini generally favors the following activities: Mental and communicative actions, and more than one activity at once. Reading, learning, letters and emails, errands, writing, teaching, making connections, short trips.
Magickal Intentions: Communication, divination, luck, safety, health, wisdom, commerce, business
Ruling Planet: Mercury
Color: Purple
Crystals: Aventurine, Agate
Wednesday is the day of the Teutonic deity known as Wodin or Odin, an aspect of the Allfather, god of knowledge, wisdom, enlightenment and combat, the parallel of Hermes, the planet Mercury.
Deity: Woden
Zodiac Sign: Gemini & Virgo
Planet: Mercury
Tree: Ash
Herb: Cinquefoil
Stone: Emerald & Sardonyx
Animal: Raven & Cat
Element: Air
Color: Red & Blue
Number: 6
Rune: Odal(O)
Celtic Tree Month of Coll (Hazel) – August 5 – September 1
Runic Half-Month of As (gods) – August 13 – August 28
Goddess of the Month of Hesperia – August 9 – September 5
Source
The Pagan Book of Days
Nigel Pennick
IN ANCIENT TIMES, THE Norse people considered apples essential for the continuation of life. Associated with the resurrection, containers of these sacred fruit were placed in graves, perhaps to nurture mortals as they journeyed from one life to the next. The Norse also believed that a soul could be passed from body to body, contained within the flesh of an apple. Many European folktales tell of infertile women who miraculously conceive a child after eating an apple.
Not surprisingly, the Norse credited the apple with granting eternal life to their deities. They honored Iduna as the goddess responsible for growing this fruit, which was eaten by the gods and goddesses to retain their youth and beauty. Iduna grew the golden apples of immortality in her enchanted western garden named Appleland; in the stories of King Arthur, Appleland was called Avalon—the idyllic country of immortal life.
Iduna was renowned for her youthful beauty, and was married to Bragi, the handsome god of poetry. As keeper of the golden apples, she was reponsible for the well-being of the Norse pantheon. Though she did her best to protect the gods and goddesses from harm, the mischievous fire god Loki nearly undermined their immortality.
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The Book of Goddesses: Expanded Anniversary Edition
Kris Waldherr
Wednesday: Is associated with Mercury and the colors of Purple, Magenta and Silver
Wednesday is the best time to deal with such matters as: Accounting, Advertising, Astrology, Clerks, Communication, Computers, Correspondence, Critics, Editing, Editors, Education, Healing, Hiring Employees, Intelligence, Journalists, Kin, Learning Languages, Legal Appointments, Memory, Merchants, Messages, Music, Neighbors, Phone Calls, Placing Ads, Siblings, Signing Contracts, Students, Visiting Friends, Visual Arts, Wisdom, and Writing
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Practical Magick for the Penny Pinching Witch
Carol Moyer
Be bold and daring today! Expand your knowledge of the Craft by working with the planetary energies of Mercury on this multifaceted day of the week. Consider the Greco-Roman gods Mercury and Hermes and all of the many lessons they have for you. Embrace change and movement, and work on your communication techniques. Conjure up a little good luck for yourself with that Mercury dime spell. Call on Athena to inspire you to try magickal arts and crafts and to be more creative in your own spellwork and witchery.
Meditate on Odin and see what you can discover about him. I wonder what sort of fabulous and fascinating magickal wisdom you will uncover? Odin is a shaman, after all; he may appear in many guises and faces. I guarantee that he will make you laugh at yourself before he is through with you, but you will learn. It’s up to you what you do with that knowledge. Will you let it shapeshift into wisdom?
Wednesday is the wild and wily day of the week, so try to go with the flow; don’t fight the quirky energies of the day. Most importantly, follow your heart, and always keep a good sense of humor, because of Wednesdays you will really need it.
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Book of Witchery: Spells, Charms & Correspondences for Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan
Be bold and daring today! Expand your knowledge of the Craft by working with the planetary energies of Mercury on this multifaceted day of the week. Consider the Greco-Roman gods Mercury and Hermes and all of the many lessons they have for you. Embrace change and movement, and work on your communication techniques. Conjure up a little good luck for yourself with that Mercury dime spell. Call on Athena to inspire you to try magickal arts and crafts and to be more creative in your own spellwork and witchery.
Meditate on Odin and see what you can discover about him. I wonder what sort of fabulous and fascinating magickal wisdom you will uncover? Odin is a shaman, after all; he may appear in many guises and faces. I guarantee that he will make you laugh at yourself before he is through with you, but you will learn. It’s up to you what you do with that knowledge. Will you let it shapeshift into wisdom?
Wednesday is the wild and wily day of the week, so try to go with the flow; don’t fight the quirky energies of the day. Most importantly, follow your heart, and always keep a good sense of humor, because of Wednesdays you will really need it.
Source
Book of Witchery: Spells, Charms & Correspondences for Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan
The Witches Almanac for Wednesday, August 16thWaning Moon
Moon Phase: Fourth Quarter
Moon Sign: Gemini
Incense: Honeysuckle
Color: Topaz
To the Romans, this day was called Dies Mercurii, or “Mercury’s day” Mercury was a popular character in the Roman pantheon. A messenger of the gods, he presided over commerce, trade, and anything that required skill or dexterity. The Celts also worshiped Mercury and eventually equated him with the Norse god Odin (some spelling variations on this name include Wotan, Wodin, and Wodan). In Norse mythologies, Odin, like Mercury, is associated with poetry and music. Interestingly enough, both Odin and Mercury were regarded as psychopomps, or the leaders of souls, in their individual mythologies.
Odin, one of the main gods in Norse mythology, was constantly seeking wisdom. He traveled the world in disguise as a one-eyed man with a long gray beard, wearing an old, beat-up hat and carrying a staff or a spear (which brings to my mind images of Gandalf from The Lord of the Rings). In the Old English language, this day of Mercury evolved into Wodnes daeg, “Woden’s day,” or Wednesday.
Wednesday carries all of the planetary and magickal energies and associations of the witty and nimble god Mercury himself. Some of these mercurial traits included good communication skills, cleverness, intelligence, creativity, business sense, writing, artistic talent, trickiness, and thievery. And don’t forget all of those wise and enigmatic qualities associated with the Norse god Odin/Wodin, not to mention the goddess Athena’s contributions of music, the arts, handmade crafts, and writing. Wednesdays afford excellent opportunities for seeking wisdom, changing your circumstances, and improving your skills, be they in trade and commerce, music and art, or in communication and writing.
Source:
Book of Witchery: Spells, Charms & Correspondences for Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan
Consecrate your dream journal to the elements. Inscribe inside it any personal symbols you wish and also this short incantation:
I will that this book serve to harmonize my spirit and mind.
May my spirit flow freely through the pages.
I shall discover myself here.
I will find my balance and healing.
I will experience joy and laughter.
May love and light surround me.
Blessed are the journeys.
Blessed is this book.
Blessed am I.
By babbling brook,
By flame and soil,
By breath and soul,
The dreams I have
Are remembered whole.
So mote it be!
You may anoint the journal with rosemary oil.
Source
Elemental Witch: Fire, Air, Water, Earth; Discover Your Natural Affinity
Tammy Sullivan.
Rosemary
Bay leaves
4 drops spearmint extract
Almond base oil
3 marigold petals
A few moonstone chips
Crush together equal amounts of rosemary and bay leaves. Add four drops of spearmint extract and blend into an almond base oil. Add three marigold petals and a few moonstone chips. Allow the oil to settle for thirty days in a dark place before use. Anoint pulse points or pillow. This oil promotes dreaming and helps you remember your dreams.
Source
Elemental Witch: Fire, Air, Water, Earth; Discover Your Natural Affinity
Tammy Sullivan.
Here are some other things you can do give your dreams a boost of energy:
1. Keep a moonstone or amethyst by your bed.
2. Make use of a dream catcher.
3. Record your dreams daily in your journal.
4. Keep track of what you eat for dinner the night before and which herb was prevalent in the meal.
5. Take a magical dream bath before retiring for the night. Passion flower or lavender scents work very well for this purpose.
6. Avoid taking medicines before bed.
Source
Elemental Witch: Fire, Air, Water, Earth; Discover Your Natural Affinity
Tammy Sullivan.
On Wednesdays, cast for communication matters and to improve good life.
Planetary Influence: Mercury
Household Symbol: Phones, televisions, computers, letters, silver coins
Color: Orange or purple
Kitchen Spices: Dill and celery seed.
Source
Cottage Witch, Natural Magick for Hearth & Home
Ellen Dugan
The Witches Current Moon Phase for August 16The Moon today is in a Waning Crescent phase. In this phase the Moon’s illumination is growing smaller each day until the New Moon. During this phase the Moon is getting closer to the Sun as viewed from Earth and the night side of the Moon is facing the Earth with only a small edge of the Moon being illuminated. This phase is best viewed an hour or 2 before the sunrise and can be quite beautiful if you’re willing to get up early. It can also be a great time to see the features of the Moon’s surface. Along the edge where the illuminated portion meets the dark side, the craters and mountains cast long shadows making them easier to observe with a telescope or binoculars.
Phase: Waning Crescent
Illumination: 34%
Moon Age: 23.71 days
Moon Angle: 0.55
Moon Distance: 363,435.71 km
Sun Angle: 0.53
Sun Distance: 151,461,696.08 km
Source
Aries
Good energy is with you for connecting, learning, sharing, and communicating, dear Aries, although as the Moon and Saturn face off across your communications sector later today, there may be some frustration with differences of opinion or you begrudgingly need to crack down on your duties. Watch for overreaction and overindulgence today in general. A heavy influence this morning can have you second-guessing your decisions or worrying too much about your performance, and a lighter influence later today can brighten your mood but could also lead you to promise more than you can deliver. The latter is a Venus-Jupiter square, and while it’s one of the easier challenging aspects, there are some things to watch for. For one, people may be expecting a lot from you, and you may be tempted to go along with something just to make everyone happy, but this can backfire on you. For another, you may be enabling someone and they, you! Neither of these things is too serious, but if you can, remember your usual limits and don’t venture too far beyond them.
Taurus
With a Venus-Jupiter square influencing your day, there is a real tendency to blow things out of proportion, dear Taurus. Venus is your ruler and is currently enjoying a guest stay in your communications sector, but Jupiter’s influence on Venus can lead you to believe you can do it all, and more! This can manifest as taking on too many projects, missing deadlines, or lining up more activities than you can reasonably manage. Alternatively, you could be reading too much into information you receive now and wasting a lot of time on something that isn’t even true. Aim to take things with a grain of salt, and avoid skipping steps and getting to a premature conclusion! Watch for making promises now if they’re based solely on the good mood of the moment.
Gemini
Your feelings seem a little more colorful than usual as the Moon spends the day in your sign, dear Gemini. You are more in touch than usual with how you feel about recent and current events. Instead of ignoring or managing them, listen to your feelings and interpret them. You can learn a lot from your gut feelings and reactions, but be aware of two influences active today that can skew your perceptions a little. The first of these, active this morning, can have you stumbling on a decision. Whether to take action or wait things out can be the question. The second influence in effect later today is entirely different — it may have the effect of speeding up the decision-making process to the point that you jump to conclusions or jump into situations without enough thought. This is especially the case with money and love today!
Cancer
While there is a retiring tendency with the Moon in your privacy sector all day, dear Cancer, Venus in your sign’s relationship with Jupiter puts you in the spotlight anyhow. However, it may, at times, be uncomfortable or pressured. Watch for impatience and overreaching. To get out of something you don’t want to do, you might promise something bigger, but that’s just unkind to your future self! You can be in an elevated good mood as the day advances, but you could also be expecting too much, and this sets you up for ups and downs. Try not to take others on that ride. You might also have great intentions for making improvements at home or making plans with loved ones, but you might also lose wind or motivation quickly. However, if you center yourself and aim to get in touch with what’s making you restless, you can avoid these little problems. Pamper yourself today, but don’t go so overboard that you have to pay the price in the future.
Leo
The Moon in your solar eleventh house all day points to a greater need than usual to enjoy a sense of community or to belong to a group or with friends, dear Leo. There is a happier outlook today, but perhaps a little volatile. Something started too quickly may burn out in the same fashion, not only because the next few weeks are not ideal for new launches, in general, but also because there is a tendency to become highly enthusiastic quickly without considering the practicality of your plans. You might begin a project or endeavor with gusto, but it may not “take” now with Venus in conflict with Jupiter. Of course, you can certainly make an effort and take your chances, especially if it’s something you enjoy, but try not to take on too much to the point of overwhelming yourself. A good mood or over-estimation of feelings and capabilities can lead to making commitments or promises that are later regretted. Enjoy yourself, but pace yourself as you do.
Virgo
You’re more concerned about the rules and your performance or how others see you today, dear Virgo, with the Moon at the top of your solar chart making you feel more accountable. Today’s Venus-Jupiter square can steer you away from your priorities, however, and can challenge your concentration or commitment. It tends to stir up impatience with anything that seems dull or meaningless. While you can certainly use this restless energy to make changes, you might also be seeing things in extremes or making mountains out of molehills. Watch for overspending and overvaluing things, as well as relying too much on plans with friends. If you aim to hold off on decisions now, then it’s a good time to stretch your imagination and consider new things and ideas.
Libra
Jupiter in your sign is in challenging aspect to Venus today, dear Libra, and it’s an energy that is best used for having a little fun. However, there is a tendency to want–or pursue–too much under this influence, to go over the top or to feel discontent with what you get, or to live beyond your means. You may be tempted to act totally out of character today, which could negatively but temporarily impact your reputation. Self-restraint and patience can save the day and can help you save face, too. Trying too hard may come across poorly when all you need to sell yourself is you! The Moon in your spirit and adventure sector all day helps you to rise above most problems, although its opposition to Saturn suggests you need to keep at least one foot on the ground.
Scorpio
Emotions run deeper than usual today, dear Scorpio, or you are taking them or yourself more seriously! A Venus-Jupiter influence kicks in as the day advances, and it can encourage pleasure-seeking and fun activities, although it can also lead to over-indulgence. There are a number of ways we can end up borrowing from the future, such as buying on credit, but also non-financial routes, such as overindulging and promising ourselves we’ll cut back tomorrow, or making promises so you can put something off. You may want to watch for these tendencies to prevent future regret. As well, keep in mind that feelings are expanded now, and you might end up making more of a situation than is necessary or healthy. Tame impulsive decisions, and you’ll put yourself in much better shape for personal enjoyment. You may end up discovering areas of your life that could stand a change or expansion in the process.
Sagittarius
You can be swinging up and down with emotions today, dear Sagittarius, but if you aim to keep your expectations in check, you’ll put yourself in the position to enjoy yourself, stretch your mind, and discover your feelings for someone or something. Unrealistic expectations in a relationship do nobody any favors, as they put the pressure on and make you or someone else feel they haven’t measured up. With Venus in challenging aspect to Jupiter (your ruler) today, intentions are likely good, but there is a tendency to go too far or over the top in your pursuit of a goal. However, with self-awareness, this needn’t be difficult. In fact, restlessness stirred today can give some huge clues as to what may be missing from your life.
Capricorn
You may continue to swing from feeling confident and second-guessing yourself or others today, dear Capricorn, but as the day advances, you feel less weighed down by frustration and seek out greener pastures. Mind you, this is due to a square between Venus and Jupiter, which has the potential of opening your heart to new experiences and possibilities, but it also seems to encourage going too far with this. Expectations may be too high or simply unrealistic. Relationship problems may be magnified now, mainly because of these expectations that put undue pressure on the people involved. This isn’t fair to you or others, so do your best to take things as they come and adjust. Be cautious when it comes to speaking too soon or too much about a matter, particularly in a public way. Taking charge of your life direction or formulating goals can help improve a relationship.
Aquarius
This is another day when we may be making too much of a situation, dear Aquarius, and decisions may be poor as a result. Your restless spirit is best fed with a varied routine, conversation, or knowledge, but a Venus-Jupiter square today can mislead you into thinking that it’s about something else altogether or something elusive. Finding a happy medium between filling your responsibilities and satiating your desire for experience and excitement may be challenging, but doable with some patience and self-awareness. Mistakes made now are likely due to overblown expectations and lack of foresight, particularly in your relationships or at work. Be careful when it comes to what you say and what you sign just now, as promises made today may be difficult to keep later. Keeping these in check puts you in a far better position to enjoy yourself and mix things up just enough to freshen up your mood.
Pisces
The Moon in your home and family sector all day points to a legitimate need for extra security, comfort, familiarity, and rest, dear Pisces. Planetary influences today, however, tend to challenge you to seek out more from life than the ordinary, but be on the lookout for becoming misguided by your own whims. Without self-study, you may not be in touch with what you actually want and end up chasing rainbows. Do your best to remember your usual limits, as circumstances can seem to encourage you to forget them today! Judgment can be compromised just for now if you make decisions based on the feeling of the moment, which is likely very positive but perhaps overdone. There is a tendency to make promises or statements that are taken as more than they are. Do what you can to tame excessive impulses so that you can enjoy a smoother, more moderate day.
Courtesy of Cafe Astrology
You have exceptionally strong convictions, and some might call you hard-headed! You are a highly independent thinker. You value your freedom more than most. You never stop learning, and you accumulate knowledge easily because you are so open to it. You can reach success on your wit alone. As intelligent as you are, you are also extremely intuitive and have a spiritual side. At times, you can be uncompromising and willful, simply because you believe in yourself and your ideas. You are attracted to, or you attract, competent people who you admire for their sharp minds, regal manner, or wisdom. You need to totally respect the person you are with, and you will go to great lengths to support and accommodate the people you love.
Famous people born today: Madonna, Timothy Hutton, Kathie Lee Gifford, James Cameron, Steve Carrell, Rumer Willis, Cameron Monaghan.
Aries
Certainly, with Mercury still retrograde, there can be more than the usual misunderstandings these days, dear Aries, but it’s a good cycle in which to revisit old conversations from a different perspective. The Moon moves through your communications sector until midday, stimulating your desire to do some of this rehashing, as long as it’s on the light side, as you are far too busy right now to focus too intently on any one topic! Your desires to communicate, connect, and collect information are notable now. You enjoy a pleasing level of busy-ness. With the Moon in your home and family sector in the second half of the day, you’ll do well for yourself if you seek out activities that help build your confidence from the inside out and treat yourself to comforting endeavors. It’s a good time to back away from problems related to work or the outside world (of which there have been more than the usual recently) so that you can recoup some energy.
Taurus
With the Moon in your resources sector for the first half of the day, your intuition is sound when it comes to practical affairs, dear Taurus. Mercury’s retrograde, active until September 5th, does sometimes pull your attention away from particular facts and details, but this opens your mind to things you overlooked in the past and allows you to reconsider how you’ve been handling money. As well, you can gain new ideas and instincts with money and business as you reassess things. Even if they need refinement later, coming up with these ideas gets you started. While you may stick with familiar tasks and activities this morning, the second half of the day has a way of stimulating your curiosity. In fact, the routine may feel too staid and boring, so it’s time to liven things up a little by branching out and connecting with people and information.
Gemini
The first half of the day is favorable for connecting, sharing ideas, and going your own way, dear Gemini, with the Moon in your sign. It’s true that Mercury’s retrograde can lead to more misunderstandings or delays than usual these days, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have some great conversations. In fact, it’s an interesting time for revisiting old discussions and ideas. This is an important time of the lunar month for getting in touch with your emotional needs (and wants), even if they are often exaggerated under this influence. It’s a good time for healthy self-focus, but also quite enjoyable for reaching out. The Moon moves out of your sign midday, reminding you of the beautiful things already present in your life. Since there have been more than the usual complications in your life recently, you’ll welcome this Moon position’s moderate and reasonable perspective.
Cancer
You tend to play things close to the vest this morning, dear Cancer, with the Moon in your private solar twelfth house. Withdrawing even in small ways from mainstream activities, particularly if they’re demanding or competitive, makes sense now as it gives you the chance to regroup. You may want to settle an issue or tie up some loose ends now. Extra rest and/or time to yourself makes sense now, if you can manage it. The Moon emerges in your solar chart midday, moving into your sign and activating your desire to reach out, connect, and start anew on an emotional level. People take notice of you. You experience a feeling of urgency when it comes to filling your needs. This is your monthly reminder of your need to connect emotionally to the world around you as well as to embrace your feelings, allowing them to motivate and invigorate you.
Leo
You can enjoy a pleasant sense of camaraderie with others in the first half of the day, dear Leo. You might have some inspiring and stimulating conversations in your social network or interesting follow-up news. Networking or group activities can be satisfying and engaging, especially the exchange of ideas. It’s one of the better days for casually communicating in this retrograde Mercury cycle, and good for revisiting old ideas or discussions. You might turn back to an old interest that you didn’t get the chance to follow up on, and now resolve to pursue it further. Midday forward, the Moon moves through your solar twelfth house for a couple of days, turning your attention to the need for further reflection, which can be especially useful after some busy days.
Virgo
The Moon continues its transit of your solar tenth house until midday, dear Virgo, and you have your priorities all sorted. Mind you, there can be some overemphasis on performance to the point that you are a little on edge, making the Moon’s move into your sector of dreams, visions, and happiness goals around noon very welcome. It makes sense to tackle your responsibilities as soon as possible to get them out of the way. Work and duties can be on the chaotic side, as you seem to have a lot going on. In the second half of the day, you seek out cooperative rather than competitive activities and situations. The less that’s expected of you, the more naturally you contribute, share, and connect with others. Especially since there has been heavier energy with you in recent days, friendships or casual connections might help you to release some of the tension you’ve been feeling in constructive ways.
Libra
Jupiter in your sign is in challenging aspect to Venus today, dear Libra, and it’s an energy that is best used for having a little fun. However, there is a tendency to want–or pursue–too much under this influence, to go over the top or to feel discontent with what you get, or to live beyond your means. You may be tempted to act totally out of character today, which could negatively but temporarily impact your reputation. Self-restraint and patience can save the day and can help you save face, too. Trying too hard may come across poorly when all you need to sell yourself is you! The Moon in your spirit and adventure sector all day helps you to rise above most problems, although its opposition to Saturn suggests you need to keep at least one foot on the ground.
Scorpio
You are inclined to throw much of yourself into whatever you’re doing in the first half of the day with the Moon in your dark solar eighth house, dear Scorpio. The themes of the eighth house are very much connected to your sign, so you understand its intensity. Whether it’s through a conversation with someone or with yourself, you’re inclined to pull important matter out from deep inside of you now, and it’s likely to do with getting a new take on a past issue. Thinking, writing, journaling or ruminating can get you in better touch with your inner needs, wants, and motivations. However, from midday forward, you turn your attention outward. This is a time of less thinking and more doing. The Moon’s move into the sign of Cancer each month usually inspires you to find natural outlets for expressing pent-up emotions, and today is no exception. You need it after some rather complex and possibly heavy days!
Sagittarius
The Moon continues to transit your partnership sector until midday, dear Sagittarius, inclining you to make connections and seek out one-on-one exchanges. A partnership, love relationship, or friendship deserves some special attention now. You’re inclined to keep things light and playful, which is your best approach, at least until afternoon. You’re finding ways to combine togetherness and individuality quite seamlessly. Mercury’s current retrograde does sometimes mess with understanding in a relationship, but it can also be a time for a useful revisit of a past problem. The trick is to come at it with a new approach. The Moon’s transit of your solar eighth house in the second half of the day (and until Saturday) has you noticing and possibly dwelling on the hidden layers of a situation or relationship. People are complicated, and you may very well enjoy figuring them out now! Be sure to use this time to understand your deeper longings, too.
Capricorn
Aim to think before responding rather than react today, dear Capricorn, and you’ll be in great shape. The first half of the day is good for sorting things out — focusing on getting the small problems fixed so that you can feel more organized and freer to handle the big stuff. Heavy Pluto in Capricorn energy in recent days can have you feeling a little tense, but the Moon’s move into your partnership sector midday suggests that sharing some of the load with someone can be an emotional tonic. With this transit (good until Saturday), you prefer to share your ideas or activities with someone special, and/or you seek out the middle road, aiming for moderation — something you definitely need for at least a couple of days!
Aquarius
When the Moon is in Gemini each month, you tend to seek out a bit of extra attention or feel compelled to shake things up and enjoy yourself more thoroughly, dear Aquarius. The Moon spends the first half of the day in the sign of the Twins, and you’re ready to get creative. You approach others with more playfulness, confidence, and optimism than usual, and they tend to respond quite happily, ready to return the favor. People are drawn to your interesting perspective and ideas, as well as your good humor today. Conversations may frequently turn to the past. From midday forward, you’re gearing up to take care of business, or life’s circumstances seem to conspire to nudge you in that direction! You’ll find that you’re particularly sensitive to what’s out of balance or inconsistent in your life now and in the next few days. This frame of mind has its potential downfalls but can be very useful as you turn your attention to small problems that need fixing, effectively taking the pressure off over-thinking the bigger issues.
Pisces
With the Moon’s continued transit of your home and family sector until midday, dear Pisces, you are in a self-protective or cautious, introspective mood. Your feelings are warm, and you tend to appreciate all that’s familiar, including close loved ones and creature comforts! Especially since there has been rather heavy and complicated Pluto energy recently, a focus on the simple things in your life can be very helpful now. You’re inclined to stick within your usual bounds, and this is good for you now, but the second half of the day tends to pull you out of your shell. You’ll experience a stronger need to express and share yourself with others. Recent tensions might be released through creative, entertaining activities. Pulling yourself away from a complex problem can sometimes give you a better perspective. Retrograde Mercury helps in this respect, as it encourages you to look at things in new ways.
Courtesy of Cafe Astrology
The Hierophant Tarot this card refers to a master and the learning of practical lessons from the study of natural law. This energy of this card points to some agent or resource that can reveal the secrets of life, the cycles of the Moon and tides, the links between human beings and the heavens.
Because monasteries were the only places a person could learn to read and write in the Middle Ages, a Hierophant was one to whom a student would petition for entry. He was the one to set the curriculum for the neophyte’s course of study.
Often pictured with the right hand raised in blessing, the Hierophant is linked with the ancient lineage of Melchezidek, initiator of the Hebrew priestly tradition, the one who passes on the teachings. All shamans of any tradition draw upon this archetype.
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In the most practical terms, The Emperor Tarot card represents the highest leadership, a head of state, or the most exemplary and powerful person in the realm. This archetypal ruler is responsible for the affairs of a society or community, which are directly proportional to his well being and happiness.
The more enlightenment and cosmic perspective this energy brings, the better life is for all. The Emperor archetype masters the world of matter and physical manifestation. When you apply this card to your situation, acknowledge your potentials for mastery. Reinforce a sense of sovereignty within yourself, despite any self-limiting beliefs, habits, or appearances to the contrary.
Draw upon the capable inner resources you possess to get the task completed.
The card in the Advice position suggests a course of action which will harmonize what you want with what is currently possible.
When the Emperor arises, he advises you get in touch with your inner sovereignty and natural self-possession. Realize that somewhere deep inside you is the memory of royalty. Reach within to find that strain of natural nobility and leadership. These innate qualities will help you manage your current situation.
The Emperor suggests that you have the necessary abilities to be the final authority. This situation is an opportunity to showcase your competence and skill. Act with the confidence of someone who knows how to take care of business.
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FOGGY DESIRE
A far-off goal is in sight, suddenly; be sure to ask for a second and third opinion before submitting to your vision’s demands. Can you find clarity?
Tarot.com is a Part of the Daily Insight Group ©2017
The Chariot is the representation of Victory and the personality traits required to attain victory. The Chariot indicates self-awareness and control. Courage—the ability to overcome fear and confront the unknown head on–is a primary ingredient of any victorious campaign and is denoted by the Chariot. So too is force of will. Often success is as much the product of will power and a refusal to surrender as it is anything else. The Chariot also represents the healthy personality of someone who believes in themselves; someone who can take control of the situation and bring events to a positive end. His successes come in competition with others.
Tarot Influence
Five of Wands Reversed
Obstacles to success will be overcome. New ventures are on the horizon.
Astrological Influence
Virgo
Virgo denotes intelligence and a drive for perfection taking command–the dealing with all aspects of life honorably.
Element Influence
Water
Water is the card of hidden truths and emotions. It also calms and soothes and is basic to life. The Water card may denote a period of discovery, fulfillment through learning and the unraveling of mysteries.
The Believer
The Believer represents Faith and the realization that you have an important place in the workings of the Universe. Although The Believer may not always understand why things are the way they are, they none-the-less feel an underlying cosmic rhythm which is moving events in a direction that is good. The Believer rejoices in their celestial role, because they realize their life has purpose on a grand scale.
As a daily card, The Believer denotes a time when you will benefit by embracing and exploring your place in the Universe. The Believer confirms that you have inherent value far beyond our secular existence; that you are an important part of the both the grandeur and the mystery of our Cosmos.
Bat’s internal radar is exceptionally attuned—is yours? Because Bat medicine is the medicine of transformation, he is asking you to re-examine your life to determine (using all of your senses) what is worth keeping and what needs to be discarded. For every death there is a rebirth and Bat is here to help you decide what goes and what stays.
The moon turns new on August 21, 2017 at 18:30 UTC. Some will call it a Black Moon, for a reason entirely unrelated to eclipses. More about that below. A moon at the new phase comes most nearly – for any particular month – to passing between the Earth and sun. This August, 2017 new moon makes that pass directly over the sun’s face, causing the much-anticipated August 21 total solar eclipse . On that day, the day of the coming new moon, the moon will pass between the sun and Earth. The moon’s shadow will fall on Earth. Those in the shadow’s path will witness the solar eclipse, a beautiful sight in the sky, and a dramatic turning of day to dark in the middle of the day.
So … Black Moon. Black Moon eclipse. Why that name? The moon will, of course, in this total solar system and all total solar eclipses appear black in front of the sun’s face during the brief minutes of totality. But that’s not why. In this case, Black Moon stems from folklore, that is, from traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community. Prior to the internet, these names were passed by word of mouth. Black Moon is similar to Blue Moon, which, by one definition, can be the third of four full moons in a season. Black Moon is the name used for the third of four new moons in one season, with a season being the period of time between a solstice and an equinox (or vice versa).
Enter your zip code to learn how much eclipse you’ll see, and what time
Most of the time, there are only three new moons in one season. But if the first new moon comes early enough in the season, it’s possible for a fourth new moon to sneak in before that season comes to an end. That’s exactly what happens during the Northern Hemisphere summer (Southern Hemisphere winter) of 2017:
2017 Jun 21: June solstice
2017 Jun 24: new moon
2017 Jul 23: new moon
2017 Aug 21: new moon
2017 Sep 20: new moon
2017 Sep 22: Sept equinox
A Black Moon by the seasonal defintion occurs 7 times in 19 years. EarthSky’s Bruce McClure has more to say about it, over in our daily Tonight pages.
Of course, all new moons are, essentially, black from our earthly perspective. New moons come once each month, as the moon orbits Earth. On the day of new moon – unless we’re viewing a total solar eclipse, we don’t see the new moon. That’s because a new moon rises when the sun rises. It sets when the sun sets. It crosses the sky with the sun during the day. Its fully illuminated face, or day side, is turned entirely away from us.
Modern techniques – telescopes, filters, photography – have made it possible to see the moon even at the instant it becomes new.
That’s the case with Thierry Legault’s image, below, which he acquired in 2013. Read more about Thierry’s image here.
It’s only as the moon moves in orbit, as its lighted hemisphere begins to come into view from Earth, that we can see it in our sky. Then we see the moon in the west after sunset as a slim waxing crescent – what some call a young moon.
From the U.S. – with autumn approaching – most of us won’t see the young moon again until August 23. It’ll be in the evening sky on August 22, too, but – with the angle of the ecliptic, or sun’s path, slanting low at this time of year with respect to the evening horizon – it’ll be hard to see.
Still, especially if you’re traveling back from the path of totality on August 22 or 23, watch for the young moon. You might catch it along some country highway, in the west shortly after sunset!
Published on EarthSky.org
So far today, Goddess, I’ve done all right.
I haven’t gossiped, haven’t lost my temper,
haven’t been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish
or overindulgent. I’m really glad about that.
But in a few minutes, I’m going to get out of bed,
and from then on I’m probably going to need a lot more help!
Wishing you all a very blessed day! We hate to cut and run but I have a pup I have to take to the vet for a check-up. Nothing major, just a check-up. So have a very beautiful day and we will see you tomorrow.
Lady of the Abyss
Remember for all your magickal needs, think Magickal Necessities
We invite you to come and take a look at our new store. We have affiliated ourselves with another wholesaler and we have lots of new items. Some of these items have never been seen on the internet or your local store either. With this new wholesaler, we can still offer you top quality merchandise at lower prices. And to boot, we are working on a deal with a Pagan clothing store to start selling their merchandise. I would say by the time it is over with Magickal Necessities will be a large store but we have no intentions of it ever stop growing.
Enough with that, we are just glad to be back and have a grand opening special just for you…..
With any $10 purchase you will receive a package of Cedar, White & Blue Sage smudge stick 3-Pack 4. These aren’t cheap sticks, if you bought them separately you would pay almost $7.00 a piece for them. You can see you are definitely getting a deal. I have used the Blue Sage and personally I think it cleansing better than the White. But you will have to decide that for yourself. So fly on by, check out the store and get a “Thank You” freebie from us.
Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.
2017 August 15
Stars, Gas, and Dust Battle in the Carina Nebula
Image Credit & Copyright: Bastien Foucher
Explanation: Chaos reigns in the Carina Nebula where massive stars form and die. Striking and detailed, this close-up of a portion of the famous nebula is a combination of light emitted by hydrogen (shown in red) and oxygen (shown in blue). Dramatic dark dust knots and complex features revealed are sculpted by the winds and radiation of Carina’s massive and energetic stars. One iconic feature of the Carina Nebula is the dark V-shaped dust lane that occurs in the top half of the image. The Carina Nebula spans about 200 light years, lies about 7,500 light years distant, and is visible with binoculars toward the southern constellation of Carina. In a billion years after the dust settles — or is destroyed, and the gas dissipates — or gravitationally condenses, then only the stars will remain — but not even the brightest ones.
Add sunspots to the list of wondrous sights to look for during the total solar eclipse of August 21, 2017
On August 14, 2017, a new active region showing small sunspots appeared on the eastern limb, or edge, of the surface of the sun. If this region on the sun remains active or evolves, the new sunspot(s) will – for those with access to telescopes – complement other amazing sights during the total solar eclipse of Monday, August 21, 2017. That’s great news and unexpected, since we’re now so near Solar Minimum, an 11-year cycle of activity on the sun, and sunspots aren’t as frequent this year as they were a few years ago. Spaceweather.com reported on August 14:
Suddenly, the eastern limb of the sun is crackling with minor solar flares, heralding the approach of a new sunspot …
The coming sunspot(s) likely require magnification to be visible, and please remember: always use safe solar filters whenever you observe or take pictures of the sun.
As the sun rotates, new sunspots appearing on the sun’s edge usually take from 5 to 6 days to reach the sun’s center – that is, the Earth-facing center of our star – and may take a total of from 11 to 12 days to reach the opposite edge of the sun. This means that if the new sunspot(s) that appeared on August 14 remain visible, these features should be located not far from the center area of the sun during the August 21 solar eclipse.
Sunspots are regions of intense magnetic activity which appear dark and are “cooler” or less hot than other areas on the surface of the sun. Sometimes they grow several times the size of Earth’s diameter.
On the morning of August 14, there were solar flares or explosions in the new active region of the solar surface. The largest was categorized as a C1-class explosion, and Spaceweather.com pointed out:
During Solar Maximum, such a solar flare would be considered too minor to report. Now, however, the sun is close to Solar Minimum, so even a C-flare is noteworthy. In fact, it is noteworthy. A typical C-class solar flare releases as much energy as 1 billion WWII atomic bombs. Only on the sun, which is itself a 1027 ton self-contained nuclear explosion, would such a blast be considered puny.
Amateur astronomers with safely-filtered solar telescopes are encouraged to monitor the eastern limb for further developments.
What to look for during a total solar eclipse
Bottom line: A sunspot is becoming visible on the edge of the sun and should be in a good place to be viewed during the partial phases of the August 21 total solar eclipse.
Published On EarthSky
This will never happen again in your lifetime! On August 21, 2017, a truly historic event will take place in the skies: a Total Solar Eclipse will cross the entire United States from West Coast to East Coast. The last time an eclipse spanned the United States (and only the United States) was before the “United States” even existed … in the year 1257!
In general, Total Eclipses over even the slightest part of the U.S. have been rare during our lifetime — the last Total Eclipse that was visible to anyone in the U.S. was in 1991, but you could only see it from Hawaii. Before that, there was a Total Eclipse visible in 1979, but that one was only visible in the Northwest states, and one in 1970 that could only be seen on the East Coast. Otherwise, the only eclipses you’ve seen in the U.S. in nearly 50 years have been partial eclipses. Hopefully by now you are realizing what an incredibly rare treat this upcoming eclipse is!
Spanning from Oregon to South Carolina, this epic cosmic event has been named the Great American Eclipse. The “path of totality” (where you must be in order to see the Total Eclipse) also crosses over parts of Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and North Carolina. Thankfully, even if you aren’t in the path of totality during the eclipse, you can still see a partial eclipse from most of the U.S. However, the closer you are to the path of totality, the more impactful the eclipse will be!
During a Total Solar Eclipse, the Moon passes in front of the Sun, totally blocking out the Sun and its light from our view here on Earth. Because the Sun and Moon must be in the same place in the sky, a Solar Eclipse will always happen on a New Moon. On August 21, 2017, for 2 minutes or more, those in the path of totality will experience a complete blackout. It will be as if night has suddenly fallen upon us in the middle of the day. You will be able to see the stars against the black sky, and Mercury, Venus, and Mars will all be visible, too! Plants and animals are even tricked by this brief but total darkness, and will immediately react as if it is nighttime.
If you are near, but not in, the path of totality during this Great American Eclipse, you will see the Sun partially eclipsed by the Moon, but you will not experience total darkness.
This Great American Eclipse will happen when both the Sun and Moon are in Leo, and coincides with the Leo New Moon. Leo is a sign of expression and creativity, but also drama and pride, so you can expect things to get intense around this eclipse!
Astrologer Rick Levine explains, “Solar Eclipses may appear disruptive as they break up blockages in our lives.” This Solar Eclipse in Leo offers you a profound opportunity to realize the changes you must make in your own life.
Part of the Daily Insight Group ©2017
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August 15, 2017
The Pope says it is time for a test about promises. Oh, it is easy to promise. It costs nothing. Can you look someone in the eye, or they you, and say: “I want you to know that I kept my promise?” It is not too late to keep agreements. If you have avoided a conversation you vowed to have with yourself or promises you intended to keep, now is also the time.
General Meaning
The Chariot Tarot card points to a triumphal feeling of freedom, as if the Charioteer is being paraded through the streets as a hero (or heroine). The card reflects congratulations for high achievement, and serves as a sign of empowerment.
Huge wheels and frisky steeds speed the rate at which the driver’s will power can be realized. This kind of charge makes more of the world accessible to one ambitious enough to seize The Chariot’s reins. But there is danger in this feeling of freedom, because of the increased rate of change and its power to magnify mistakes in judgment. As a seasoned warrior, the Charioteer is called upon to be extra attentive to the way ahead.
In the Advice Position
Look upon the movements of change as full of promise and adventure.
The card in the Advice position suggests a course of action which will harmonize what you want with what is currently possible.
The Chariot advises that you be prepared for changes that might include a move or an opportunity to travel. The Charioteer travels light and stays open to fresh experiences that change with every valley or mountain pass.
You may be asked to live out of a suitcase and consider every place your home for a while. Be receptive to new people who come into your life. Most especially, become more fluid and taste the joys of freedom. The Charioteer is nothing if not self-sufficient.
Be prepared and self-contained for the changes that will sweep in and carry you with them.
Part of the Daily Insight Group ©2017
For the week of August 14, I chose the Ace of Pentacles reversed!
The Ace of Pentacles typically indicates a new opportunity associated with money, career, or physical things. It might be a new business opportunity, a new job, or a new investment opportunity.
Given this card is reversed this week, you may want to keep this new opportunity under wraps, especially if it is in the very early stages of development. You might have just had the idea to start a new business, or you might be in early negotiations for a new job. It doesn’t feel like the right time just yet to go shouting it from the rooftops (just in case it doesn’t come to fruition).
And, given we’ve just started Mercury Retrograde, it is very possible that you might change your mind about the opportunity in the next few weeks. So, take it easy, okay?
Ask the Tarot: What new opportunity is presenting itself to me?
Part of the Daily Insight Group ©2017
The Two in this suit usually represents conflicting ideas or visions. These must be reconciled by communication in order to arrive in a harmonious place or to complete strategic negotiations. Mixed signals prevail.
While they may be appearing to try to communicate, opposite sides are missing each other entirely, with possibly drastic consequences. In the best case, a frank discussion would clear the air and serve both sides, but one cannot expect that in every instance where this card appears.
Part of the Daily Insight Group ©2017
Aries
Good energy is with you for connecting, learning, sharing, and communicating, dear Aries, although as the Moon and Saturn face off across your communications sector later today, there may be some frustration with differences of opinion or you begrudgingly need to crack down on your duties. Watch for overreaction and overindulgence today in general. A heavy influence this morning can have you second-guessing your decisions or worrying too much about your performance, and a lighter influence later today can brighten your mood but could also lead you to promise more than you can deliver. The latter is a Venus-Jupiter square, and while it’s one of the easier challenging aspects, there are some things to watch for. For one, people may be expecting a lot from you, and you may be tempted to go along with something just to make everyone happy, but this can backfire on you. For another, you may be enabling someone and they, you! Neither of these things is too serious, but if you can, remember your usual limits and don’t venture too far beyond them.
Taurus
With a Venus-Jupiter square influencing your day, there is a real tendency to blow things out of proportion, dear Taurus. Venus is your ruler and is currently enjoying a guest stay in your communications sector, but Jupiter’s influence on Venus can lead you to believe you can do it all, and more! This can manifest as taking on too many projects, missing deadlines, or lining up more activities than you can reasonably manage. Alternatively, you could be reading too much into information you receive now and wasting a lot of time on something that isn’t even true. Aim to take things with a grain of salt, and avoid skipping steps and getting to a premature conclusion! Watch for making promises now if they’re based solely on the good mood of the moment.
Gemini
Your feelings seem a little more colorful than usual as the Moon spends the day in your sign, dear Gemini. You are more in touch than usual with how you feel about recent and current events. Instead of ignoring or managing them, listen to your feelings and interpret them. You can learn a lot from your gut feelings and reactions, but be aware of two influences active today that can skew your perceptions a little. The first of these, active this morning, can have you stumbling on a decision. Whether to take action or wait things out can be the question. The second influence in effect later today is entirely different — it may have the effect of speeding up the decision-making process to the point that you jump to conclusions or jump into situations without enough thought. This is especially the case with money and love today!
Cancer
While there is a retiring tendency with the Moon in your privacy sector all day, dear Cancer, Venus in your sign’s relationship with Jupiter puts you in the spotlight anyhow. However, it may, at times, be uncomfortable or pressured. Watch for impatience and overreaching. To get out of something you don’t want to do, you might promise something bigger, but that’s just unkind to your future self! You can be in an elevated good mood as the day advances, but you could also be expecting too much, and this sets you up for ups and downs. Try not to take others on that ride. You might also have great intentions for making improvements at home or making plans with loved ones, but you might also lose wind or motivation quickly. However, if you center yourself and aim to get in touch with what’s making you restless, you can avoid these little problems. Pamper yourself today, but don’t go so overboard that you have to pay the price in the future.
Leo
The Moon in your solar eleventh house all day points to a greater need than usual to enjoy a sense of community or to belong to a group or with friends, dear Leo. There is a happier outlook today, but perhaps a little volatile. Something started too quickly may burn out in the same fashion, not only because the next few weeks are not ideal for new launches, in general, but also because there is a tendency to become highly enthusiastic quickly without considering the practicality of your plans. You might begin a project or endeavor with gusto, but it may not “take” now with Venus in conflict with Jupiter. Of course, you can certainly make an effort and take your chances, especially if it’s something you enjoy, but try not to take on too much to the point of overwhelming yourself. A good mood or over-estimation of feelings and capabilities can lead to making commitments or promises that are later regretted. Enjoy yourself, but pace yourself as you do.
Virgo
You’re more concerned about the rules and your performance or how others see you today, dear Virgo, with the Moon at the top of your solar chart making you feel more accountable. Today’s Venus-Jupiter square can steer you away from your priorities, however, and can challenge your concentration or commitment. It tends to stir up impatience with anything that seems dull or meaningless. While you can certainly use this restless energy to make changes, you might also be seeing things in extremes or making mountains out of molehills. Watch for overspending and overvaluing things, as well as relying too much on plans with friends. If you aim to hold off on decisions now, then it’s a good time to stretch your imagination and consider new things and ideas.
Libra
Jupiter in your sign is in challenging aspect to Venus today, dear Libra, and it’s an energy that is best used for having a little fun. However, there is a tendency to want–or pursue–too much under this influence, to go over the top or to feel discontent with what you get, or to live beyond your means. You may be tempted to act totally out of character today, which could negatively but temporarily impact your reputation. Self-restraint and patience can save the day and can help you save face, too. Trying too hard may come across poorly when all you need to sell yourself is you! The Moon in your spirit and adventure sector all day helps you to rise above most problems, although its opposition to Saturn suggests you need to keep at least one foot on the ground.
Scorpio
Emotions run deeper than usual today, dear Scorpio, or you are taking them or yourself more seriously! A Venus-Jupiter influence kicks in as the day advances, and it can encourage pleasure-seeking and fun activities, although it can also lead to over-indulgence. There are a number of ways we can end up borrowing from the future, such as buying on credit, but also non-financial routes, such as overindulging and promising ourselves we’ll cut back tomorrow, or making promises so you can put something off. You may want to watch for these tendencies to prevent future regret. As well, keep in mind that feelings are expanded now, and you might end up making more of a situation than is necessary or healthy. Tame impulsive decisions, and you’ll put yourself in much better shape for personal enjoyment. You may end up discovering areas of your life that could stand a change or expansion in the process.
Sagittarius
You can be swinging up and down with emotions today, dear Sagittarius, but if you aim to keep your expectations in check, you’ll put yourself in the position to enjoy yourself, stretch your mind, and discover your feelings for someone or something. Unrealistic expectations in a relationship do nobody any favors, as they put the pressure on and make you or someone else feel they haven’t measured up. With Venus in challenging aspect to Jupiter (your ruler) today, intentions are likely good, but there is a tendency to go too far or over the top in your pursuit of a goal. However, with self-awareness, this needn’t be difficult. In fact, restlessness stirred today can give some huge clues as to what may be missing from your life.
Capricorn
You may continue to swing from feeling confident and second-guessing yourself or others today, dear Capricorn, but as the day advances, you feel less weighed down by frustration and seek out greener pastures. Mind you, this is due to a square between Venus and Jupiter, which has the potential of opening your heart to new experiences and possibilities, but it also seems to encourage going too far with this. Expectations may be too high or simply unrealistic. Relationship problems may be magnified now, mainly because of these expectations that put undue pressure on the people involved. This isn’t fair to you or others, so do your best to take things as they come and adjust. Be cautious when it comes to speaking too soon or too much about a matter, particularly in a public way. Taking charge of your life direction or formulating goals can help improve a relationship.
Aquarius
This is another day when we may be making too much of a situation, dear Aquarius, and decisions may be poor as a result. Your restless spirit is best fed with a varied routine, conversation, or knowledge, but a Venus-Jupiter square today can mislead you into thinking that it’s about something else altogether or something elusive. Finding a happy medium between filling your responsibilities and satiating your desire for experience and excitement may be challenging, but doable with some patience and self-awareness. Mistakes made now are likely due to overblown expectations and lack of foresight, particularly in your relationships or at work. Be careful when it comes to what you say and what you sign just now, as promises made today may be difficult to keep later. Keeping these in check puts you in a far better position to enjoy yourself and mix things up just enough to freshen up your mood.
Pisces
The Moon in your home and family sector all day points to a legitimate need for extra security, comfort, familiarity, and rest, dear Pisces. Planetary influences today, however, tend to challenge you to seek out more from life than the ordinary, but be on the lookout for becoming misguided by your own whims. Without self-study, you may not be in touch with what you actually want and end up chasing rainbows. Do your best to remember your usual limits, as circumstances can seem to encourage you to forget them today! Judgment can be compromised just for now if you make decisions based on the feeling of the moment, which is likely very positive but perhaps overdone. There is a tendency to make promises or statements that are taken as more than they are. Do what you can to tame excessive impulses so that you can enjoy a smoother, more moderate day.
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You have cleverness and versatility that allow you to understand just about anything. Yours is a youthful spirit, with a mischievous streak, not only in youth but throughout life! As intelligent as you are, you see so many possible paths to take that it can be challenging focusing on just one. You share your fun-loving spirit through your sense of humor and unique ideas. You love to solve problems, and you may have marked writing or speaking ability. Your ability to solve problems is next to none. With your need to find wisdom in whatever you do and see, you are inclined to build up a strong personal philosophy. You are quite idealistic about people and about love, so you should watch for expecting too much from a partner. You can be quite sensitive to the mood swings of a partner. Famous people born today: Ben Affleck, Julia Child, Princess Anne, Jennifer Lawrence, Natasha Henstridge, Tess Harper, Joe Jonas.
Your birthday occurs around a Third Quarter Moon this year, and you are reaching an important turning point in terms of personal growth. You may be more emotional this year and should watch for unnecessary conflicts and the making of hasty decisions as a result. Otherwise, this is a year of greater understanding and a strong desire to take care of business. This should be a busy, dynamic period in your life.
You are likely to feel very inspired to improve and do your best in the period ahead. You’re likely to assume a leadership role and establish connections and/or relationships with people that help forward your own personal growth. Teamwork and camaraderie, as well as meaningful connections, are themes. You feel your life has definite purpose this year. You are encouraged to grow through your connections with others.
There can be a stronger tendency toward, or desire for, commitment and deep involvement in your relationships in the period ahead. You are taking love or friendship connections seriously! There can be a willingness to make sacrifices if it seems the best way to make improvements in relationships and with money matters. You can be quite particular in your tastes, and good with money and savings.
There can be a significant focus on nurturing and supporting people in your life this year. You are more imaginative and attuned to the world of beauty and romance in the year ahead. Gentleness with others is the best way to harness this energy and to attract what you want into your life. There could be truly “magical” times on a romantic and social level. You are especially romantic this year, and you are likely to idealize and expand a relationship through sensitive interactions and a more giving approach. Benefits come through paying attention to your dreams and intuitions, as well as through creativity.
However, at times this year, there can be some intensity in your love or social life, as you want to grow and develop in these areas of life. You should watch for impatience or too-high expectations in this regard. Your love nature is strong although given to extremes at times. You may overvalue something (or someone). Extravagances are possible.
As well, it’s important to double-check your communications this year, as you can be a little careless or too quick with them, and there is some tendency to drift apart from certain friends as you can be quite wrapped up in your affairs.
Travel opportunities are likely. Pinnacle successes can occur during this period – for example, publishing an important project, graduating, marrying, having a child, getting a promotion, and so forth. Matters related to universities, higher education, religion, publishing, legal affairs, and foreign interests tend to fare well.
You are likely to enjoy professional as well as personal opportunities. Your faith in your ability to produce and to win takes you places you perhaps never imagined. You are able to see the “big picture”, which helps you to plan effectively. You might enjoy significant wins and positive outcomes in competitive activities, including sports and business, for example.
This is a year of special attention to relationships, but you’re also highly active, motivated, and enterprising in the year ahead. Creativity thrives. Some relationships can be loaded and have their ups and downs, while others prosper. This can be a particularly active period in your life, but you also take the time to enjoy quiet activities rewarding personal projects. Competitiveness can lead to good things but watch for taking this to the point that you’re energetically drained.
2017 is a Number Six year for you. Ruled by Venus. This is a year of relative contentment. It is a time when love is the easiest to attract, and partnerships formed under this vibration have a better chance for longevity. You are able to attract others, and material things as well, this year. This is a good year for establishing harmony in the family and in the home. Advice – develop existing relationships, be positive and receptive because these kinds of energies help you to attract what you desire.
2018 will be a Number Seven year for you. Ruled by Neptune. This is a year of preparation, chance, and refinement. It is not a time of dramatic changes. Instead, it’s a year when reflection on the past is helpful, and when refinements to your life path should be made. It’s a good year to study and analyze. Unexpected twists to your life story and “chance” meetings are probable. Advice – take stock of your life in order to prepare for more exciting years to come, examine the past and plan for the future, get in touch with your deepest needs and uncover your personal power, don’t strain yourself or actively try to expand.
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Aries
If you don’t find a productive channel for your excess energy today, dear Aries, you might be snappy or irritable. You could feel like the ball is not in your court or you may not be able to shake certain frustrations or worries. This is Pluto’s influence, and with that knowledge, you can develop strategies to work with instead of against the energy. If you’re worried about losing a position or value in others’ eyes, remind yourself that obsessing or worrying about it will probably make things worse. Instead, channel your energy into working on problem or vulnerable areas, as much as it’s reasonable to do so. There can be tricky relationship dynamics to deal with now, and there can be emotional game-playing to deal with, and conflicting urges and demands leave you feeling pulled in opposite directions. You could be dealing with pressures from competition, but you also need some peace and quiet in order to bring the best version of yourself to your practical affairs and responsibilities. A compromise seems your best bet.
Taurus
Venus, your ruler, opposes Pluto, bringing buried feelings to a head, dear Taurus. Do what you can to avoid mind games and the people playing them today, especially since Mercury is freshly retrograde and misunderstandings can complicate the picture. However, this is a time for acknowledging fears and concerns, and as you see and feel them more clearly, you can put in the work putting them behind you. Clashing with someone close to you is possible, and since this is occurring along your communications axis, you may be taking differences in opinion very seriously right now. Your conversations may be more provocative than you realize. Even as the day advances, we have more awkward Pluto energy to deal with, so do your best to be conscious of fear-driven behavior. While some days support spontaneity, this is a better day to be on your best behavior.
Gemini
Circumstances today can have you questioning or examining your attachments, dear Gemini. While there can be conflicts or uncomfortable situations to deal with, it’s also a time for uncovering something important about yourself, another person, or a situation. Energies are anything but easygoing for the time being, and people can be particularly defensive. If you’ve been especially attached to someone or something, this issue may be tested or come to a head now. The Moon enters your sign late morning, and this can serve to perk you up, although it can also have the effect of magnifying emotions. You continue to see-saw between wanting to keep things light and digging deeper, finding it difficult to find an in-between that satisfies, later today. However hard it is to see, there is a middle ground. Aim for moderation now.
Cancer
With Venus in your sign opposing Pluto today, dear Cancer, a conflict or clash with someone over attachments and allegiances is possible. You’ve been getting more attention and you’re in a rather light, good mood much of the time these days, and someone may feel a little insecure as they fear you’re drifting away. Compromises can be difficult to reach today, but if others are willing to meet you halfway, try your best to reach one. However, don’t get pulled into a power or mind game. Intense feelings that emerge now can be very revealing. Even difficult interactions can teach you a lot about yourself and your needs. It’s possible that the tables are reversed for some of you, and you are feeling insecure about a relationship now, and worries or fears reach a head. This is a time for developing strategies for letting go of a tendency to over-manage an area of life you fear losing.
Leo
Venus and Pluto face off today, dear Leo, and this connection has a way of bringing frustrations to a head. These days, you have a great need for relaxation and retreat so that you can heal, detox, and unwind, but Pluto in your work and health sector can aggravate your fears of falling behind or of letting someone else take the reins this week. Some of you may be dealing with power struggles on the job or tension in your interactions. Insecurities can emerge that are very revealing, showing you the areas that require the most inner work and attention. Avoid, as much as possible, the tendency to obsess over, micromanage, or oversee every detail so that you can take the break you need, and consider reaching a compromise for improved health, both emotional and physical.
Virgo
This can be an important time for you to discover your feelings for a friend or lover, dear Virgo, although feelings for someone can be overflowing — so intense that you don’t know what to do with them, exactly! The need for easygoing connections is high, but the pull of intense relationships is great. For some of you, this energy relates to projects or activities, as you need time for light, airy, supportive interactions and diversions but may have a hard time pulling yourself away from the powerful draw of a project that seems to demand a lot of your time. You could feel reeled into something uncomfortable, but you may need to draw on self-control and find ways to detach enough to unwind. You might decide to avoid emotional drama now, although meeting it head-on, if done mindfully, can lead to opportunities to learn and grow.
Libra
Watch for power struggles today, dear Libra. Venus opposes Pluto, and this annual aspect tends to pull up frustrations related to fears and insecurities. Emotions are running high, and relationships – not just with someone else, but also with yourself – can be difficult right now! You’re taking more pleasure in your work, connections to friends, or outside responsibilities these days, but you might also feel the need to be present at home or concerns about your personal life seem to pull your attention away, getting in the way of performing at your peak and enjoying yourself. Home or family life may be complicated, or you could be feeling guilty about spreading your wings, and the events of the day can offer some clues as to where you can begin to make some compromises. After all, you deserve some free time.
Scorpio
Venus opposes your ruler, Pluto, today, dear Scorpio, pushing you to resolve a conflict whether the conflict is external or internal. While there are excellent benefits from getting out and about or enjoying new experiences, ideas, and topics these days, this can conflict with a compulsion to stick around or oversee the goings-on in your neck of the woods or with demanding projects and personal interests. You need to leave your “post” from time to time without guilt, so attempt to reach a compromise. As well, your personal interests and studies can be taking up so much time and energy that they interfere with your work or responsibilities. This might also manifest as tension in a relationship as you fear a person is drifting away. A difference in opinion can run deeper than the topic, and you can feel as if you’ve lost your power or intrigue in someone’s eyes. Love is complicated right now, but it’s best to avoid power plays. Obsessive thinking might also be an issue today if it’s preventing you from performing, expanding, exploring new ideas and experiences, and reaching out.
Sagittarius
Today, you could find yourself in conflict with someone, dear Sagittarius, as you see a situation in entirely different ways. Watch for holding on too tightly to people, situations, and things, as this can prevent you from letting go and more fully enjoying sharing or intimacy with someone. In fact, examining exactly what is holding you back from embracing happiness comes more readily today as a Venus-Pluto aspect forces a confrontation, either with someone or taking the form of a personal reveal or epiphany. It’s certainly the first step towards making empowering changes and improvements. Alternatively, this aspect may play out as your desire to move out of your comfort zone being hampered by insecurities, and it would be very beneficial to talk yourself through your fears. Making a compromise with someone or yourself is a great starting point.
Capricorn
The tendency today is to insist on “all or nothing” when you would be far better off going halfers, dear Capricorn. It may be best to avoid extremes right now with Pluto in your sign convincing you that you need to go all out at odds with both Venus and Mars. Stubbornness or unwillingness to budge on a matter can prevent you from enjoying, learning, and improving. Relationships can be most affected. Someone’s behavior might frustrate or concern you, and your first instinct may be to resist or toughen up. However, consider meeting someone halfway and work on releasing tension. Aim to let go of unhealthy competitiveness and pressures on yourself to perform that weigh you down so that you can free yourself up for more rewarding, self-empowering, and positive activities.
Aquarius
You may have a tough time understanding some of your deepest emotions today, dear Aquarius, but staying out of touch can lead to problems in your interactions, particularly with people you deal with on a daily basis, so aim for more self-awareness. If tensions or frustrations seem to arise quickly and seemingly out of thin air, remind yourself that they are living within you and affecting your behavior, so it would be highly beneficial for you to figure them out! In fact, your initial reactions to events today can have a lot to tell you about what’s really going on inside of you. There are great benefits and joy involved with your work and daily routines as well as passion or animation in your relationships these days, so don’t let insecurities prevent you from giving what or who you love your all. The Moon’s move into your entertainment sector today can certainly help you to break down emotional walls.
Pisces
With Pluto prominent and strained today, dear Pisces, fear seems to be the driver of emotional scenes, power plays, control, and possessiveness. Your initial reactions to stressors in your environment today can be very revealing — they are clues to what fears, insecurities, or resentments may be lurking just under the surface. Venus opposes Pluto across your social sector today, and Mars forms an awkward connection with Pluto as well, bringing your passion for your work, organization, or health pursuits into the mix of complex energies. Your need for personal enjoyment that’s guilt-free is high, and taking time for “play” can be healing as well, so don’t allow complicated friendships to take so much of your time that you barely get to relax and enjoy yourself.
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